Guest Column: Putting Ohioans First by Robert Sprague, Ohio Treasurer of State

Apr 12, 2019

I’ve had the opportunity to settle into my role as Treasurer of State, continue to travel the state and meet with more Ohioans. One of the things I love about this job is the ability to once again work closely with local government officials to help secure a sound financial footing for our state’s future. It was during my time as the city auditor and treasurer for my hometown of Findlay where I learned how hard you work to balance your budgets and provide the best services possible for your constituents. I can’t say enough good things about the work that goes on in Ohio’s communities every day.

Upon taking office, we quickly established our mission for the office: to be trusted stewards of Ohio’s Treasury, wise investors in Ohio’s future and bold innovators committed to improving people’s lives. The Treasurer’s office holds a deep understanding and sophistication in finance, investment management, accounting and trusts. Each day, I continue to be impressed by the honest and hardworking individuals who I’m proud to call colleagues in our office.

In the months and years ahead, we will pursue excellence in each and every one of those areas to make the Treasury the most trusted and helpful financial institution in Ohio. In addition, the Treasurer’s office will help to provide innovative responses to some of Ohio’s biggest challenges.

As we’re seeing in communities across the state, Ohio is ground zero for infant mortality and addiction. We’re all affected by the devastating impact of these and other issues, which are costing Ohioans billions of dollars across a multitude of services including health care, schools, jails, businesses, foster care and more.

You probably wonder what the Treasurer of State can do to help. Too often when we try to address problems like these, we pay for services – not results. We hope to change that habit. Recently, I partnered with Sen. Steve Wilson from southwest Ohio and Rep. Don Manning from the Mahoning Valley to introduce legislation that would create the ResultsOHIO fund. This ‘pay for success’ model will leverage private sector innovation so Ohio can direct its efforts towards initiatives that are proven effective rather than wasting taxpayer dollars on failed programs.

We also remain committed to helping Ohioans with disabilities to thrive and be more independent. STABLE Accounts, made available through the Treasurer’s office, allow individuals living with special needs to save and invest money without losing needs-based benefits. We’re working to improve and expand the program to take STABLE Accounts to the next level.

We look forward to partnering with the County Commissioners Association of Ohio to provide you with important updates, especially as it relates to CPIM conferences and trainings. In the meantime, please follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @OhioTreasurer for the latest news and information. Also, please do not hesitate to reach out to the regional liaison in your area for any questions or concerns you may have.

As your Treasurer, I’m working for you. My door is always open and I’m always looking for new ideas and ways to connect with Ohio’s local governments. Thank you for the work you do on behalf of Ohio’s counties.